Sir Elton John, Sir Rod Stewart and Jessie J join an array of music legends for special tribute to ‘funny and rude friend Steve Wright’ as stars honour late DJ on his 70th birthday

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Notable musicians gathered to honor their dear friend Steve Wright, celebrating what would have been his 70th birthday.

A diverse group of well-known personalities, including Sir Elton John and Jessie J, came together to pay tribute to a beloved DJ who passed away.

In February 2024, at the age of 69, Steve was deeply missed by numerous people, including figures such as Lulu, Greg James, and Jessie J.

‘Each conversation we had together was often humorous, and at times a bit brash,’ Sir Rod Stewart remarked, ‘I’ll really miss you, deeply.’

Sir Elton John, now 78, shared that persistent efforts from Steve ultimately prompted his record label to make changes, culminating in the 1989 hit single “Sacrifice.

For the first time, I achieved the top spot on the charts in England with a solo record. Throughout my career, he stood by my side, his deep musical knowledge and passion for music being evident every step of the way. Losing him on radio was a profound loss for me.

During his tenure as host on Radio 1 Breakfast show, Greg James referred to him as one of the ‘original creators’. Meanwhile, Jessie J reminisced about his acts of kindness towards her.

Additionally, Scottish singer Lulu referred to him as “an immense source of support for me and my career,” who eventually became her friend.

One of Radio 2 DJ Wright’s colleagues and friends has alleged that the BBC has damaged Wright’s legacy and unfairly treated him in the period leading up to his passing.

Last February saw the passing of Wright, a cherished radio personality, which left countless fans mourning deeply.

A fellow worker, Anthony James, involved in the music for Steve Wright in the Afternoon and Steve Wright’s Sunday Love Songs, has expressed dissatisfaction with how the BBC managed his late friend’s professional life – a feeling shared before and after his passing.

In 2022, Wright was axed from the BBC, despite the success of his show being ‘through the roof’.

Nine months prior, the star confided in James that the corporation had informed him about its upcoming cancellation, promising to keep it a secret.

Yet, he held confidence that the show would persist through a different digital platform, as Helen Thomas, BBC Radio 2’s head, had allegedly conveyed to him.

As time passed without any news regarding the matter, it is reported that Wright went to speak with the director-general, Tim Davie. According to the rumor, Davie expressed surprise at the situation by saying, “I can hardly believe she let you go… I wouldn’t have made that decision myself.” However, the BBC has refuted these claims.

James asserted that the termination of Steve Wright from his afternoon show was a step taken by the BBC to eliminate broadcasters perceived as too traditional, stereotypically white males.

In a conversation with The Telegraph, he expressed, “They considered the notion of personality outdated; it’s no longer trendy. We should modernize Radio 2 to make it appealing again.

‘But who gives a s*** about cool? It’s about being entertained.’

According to James, the impact of the dismissal on Wright’s overall well-being, both physically and mentally, was catastrophic. He didn’t seem to be able to cope with it; instead, it seemed like it had a profound effect on him, consuming him. Over time, things only worsened, and his health deteriorated further.

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2025-08-25 04:04